This ice cream recipe featuring Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk delivers a rich, creamy texture without the need for an ice cream maker. The condensed milk adds natural sweetness and a luscious mouthfeel, making it a perfect no-churn dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 (14 oz) can Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional mix-ins: ½ cup chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or fruit preserves
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, pour the Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk and stir in the vanilla extract and pinch of salt until combined.
- Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, whip the cold heavy cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to overbeat, or the cream will turn buttery.
- Gently fold about one-third of the whipped cream into the condensed milk mixture to lighten it.
- Fold in the remaining whipped cream carefully, maintaining as much airiness as possible to keep the ice cream light and fluffy.
- If using, fold in your choice of mix-ins such as chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or fruit preserves.
- Transfer the mixture into a freezer-safe container, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Cover the container tightly with a lid or plastic wrap and freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight until firm.
- Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping.
Tips
- Substitutions: You can substitute heavy whipping cream with full-fat coconut cream for a dairy-free version, but the texture will be slightly different.
- Storage: Store your ice cream in an airtight container to prevent ice crystals and freezer burn.
- Common mistakes: Avoid overwhipping the cream, which can cause it to separate and affect the texture of your ice cream.
- Mix-ins: Add mix-ins after folding the whipped cream to keep the texture light and avoid deflating the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This ice cream pairs wonderfully with fresh berries, warm fruit compote, or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce. For a simple sundae, top with chopped nuts and a sprinkle of sea salt. It also works well served alongside warm apple pie or brownies for a classic dessert duo.
Variations
You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste. For chocolate lovers, fold in ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder into the condensed milk mixture before folding in the whipped cream. For a fruity twist, swirl in ½ cup homemade or store-bought fruit preserves such as raspberry or strawberry during the folding stage. To add a hint of coffee flavor, dissolve 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder in 1 tablespoon hot water and mix it into the condensed milk base.
Storage and Reheating
Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks for best flavor and texture. Longer storage can lead to freezer burn and icy texture. There is no reheating needed; simply allow the ice cream to sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping to soften it slightly. Avoid thawing completely and refreezing, as this will degrade the texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker?
Yes! This recipe is specifically designed to be no-churn, using whipped cream and sweetened condensed milk to achieve a creamy texture without the need for an ice cream machine.
Why is Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk used?
Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk provides both sweetness and creaminess, eliminating the need for additional sugar or heavy custard bases. Its thick consistency helps create a smooth, rich ice cream.
Can I use low-fat milk or cream?
Using low-fat dairy will affect the texture and richness of the ice cream. Heavy whipping cream is recommended for its high fat content, which contributes to creaminess and prevents ice crystallization.
How do I prevent ice crystals in no-churn ice cream?
Folding the whipped cream gently into the condensed milk helps trap air, which reduces ice crystal formation. Storing the ice cream in an airtight container and minimizing temperature fluctuations in the freezer also helps maintain a smooth texture.
Can I add alcohol to this ice cream?
Yes, adding a tablespoon of liqueur like Kahlúa, Baileys, or rum can enhance flavor and slightly soften the ice cream. Be careful not to add too much, as alcohol can prevent the ice cream from freezing properly.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
This recipe is safe for children as it contains no raw eggs or alcohol. Just ensure any optional mix-ins, like nuts or alcohol, are appropriate for the child’s age and dietary restrictions.
With minimal ingredients and no need for special equipment, this Eagle Brand ice cream recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy homemade ice cream any time. Its creamy texture and sweet flavor make it a crowd-pleaser for warm days or cozy nights alike.
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